CHCS Perspectives Winter 2014

Dr. Joan Rattray, Dr. Sharmella Roopchand-Martin, Dr. Karen Julius, Dr. Bernadette Franklin, Dr. Chithrah Saranathan, Dr. Denise Nichols, and Dr. Ana Gondrez Chai Chong. It was interest- ing to learn how physiotherapy is practiced in Jamaica and exciting to consider partnering with Jamaican therapists on our 2014 visit. Participating in the Jamaican medical outreach trip taught us many things, among them how to be creative when resources are limited. Physical and occupational therapy faculty members cre- ated a wheelchair from a rolling walker and a piece of plywood for a child with cerebral palsy. It was great to be able to apply what we were learning in class to people who really needed our services. Collaborating with other health professionals was also a fantastic learning experience because we had the chance to teach other health professionals reasons to refer to PT services. Overall, this was a life-changing experience for those of us that participated in the medical outreach experience. It was great to see the resourcefulness and determination of the local Jamaican resi- dents. When patients come up to you and say, “This is the best I’ve felt in months, thank you,” you know you have made a positive im- pact on their lives and well-being. Although we donated our time and expertise in the spirit of social responsibility, we received much more in return. I had the opportunity to embody our core values when I participated in a weeklong service trip to Hagley Gap, Jamaica, that was organized by the NSU Office of Student Leadership and Civic Engagement. On May 5, 2013, we began our journey to Minto, Penlyne Castle Primary School grounds, and local health clinics. Together with the Blue Mountain Project, we accomplished so much in such little time. We assisted in afterschool programs by tutoring students and engaging them in education activities, assisted teachers with progressive lesson plans, sup- plied schools and students with materials, and trained students and faculty mem- bers in using computers. Since our volunteer experience concluded, 150 children have attended Fun Camp and received back-to-school supplies. Fun Camp not only keeps children active and off the streets, but it now includes educational programs such as sci- ence and math. The two health clinics continue to provide basic medical care and are in search of medical staff to treat more serious conditions. Unfortu- nately, the nearest hospital is three hours away in Kingston. During my time in Jamaica, I was warmly welcomed by my host family—Mr. and Mrs. Bennett. There is so much to be learned from such a hard-working, loving, and compassionate community. This experience has taught me greater appreciation, care, and the value of altruism. I leave this experience with one thought. As Gandhi once said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Teaching and Learning in Hagley Gap, Jamaica By Michelle Sierra, Class of 2016 Pictured (from left) are Drs. Vanessa Brockhouse, Mary Blackinton, and Keiba Shaw, who supervised the D.P.T. students during the medical outreach trip to Jamaica.